An unfamiliar car passed the gate twice, but it did not stop.

I photographed the license plate and sent it to Ortega.

Then I made myself soup, took the medication Nina recommended, and went upstairs.

For the first time since the birthday dinner, I slept with my bedroom door locked.

I hated needing that lock.

I also knew that refusing to use it would not make me safer.

PART 3

For Trevor’s inheritance, only if he earns it.